Nekia Nichelle is an entertainment/lifestyle reporter + expert, TV host,…
Tyler Perry‘s latest film, Divorce In The Black, starring Meagan Good and Cory Hardrict, isn’t your typical dramatic film. Strap yourselves in for an emotional rollercoaster as this movie tackles the harsh reality of domestic abuse, divorce, and religion within the Black community. While the film’s intensity may be difficult to watch at times, it sheds light on a complex and often-ignored issue.
The domestic violence part was hard for me
-Meagan Good
The story centers around Ava (Good), a successful bank professional, whose world crumbles when her husband Dallas (Hardrict) abandons their marriage. Determined to fight for her relationship, Ava embarks on a journey of self-discovery as she grapples with the emotional and psychological scars left by Dallas’s actions.
From the very first scene, Perry establishes the film’s raw and unflinching portrayal of domestic abuse. The opening act features a funeral sequence unlike any other, setting the tone for the emotional intensity that follows. Divorce In The Black doesn’t shy away from depicting the emotional manipulation and controlling behavior that often characterizes abusive relationships.
I just put my experience of 30 years into this character and I just said I’m gonna go for it, you know.
-Cory Hardrict
Both Good and Hardrict deliver award-worthy performances. Good perfectly embodies Ava’s resilience as she navigates the trauma and confusion of betrayal. Hardrict portrays Dallas with a chilling conviction, making his character’s manipulative tactics all the more believable. There’s a scene around the 55-minute mark where Dallas’s behavior became so intense, it demanded a pause and a social media shoutout to Hardrict for his chilling performance. You know Tyler Perry wasn’t holding back when you’re half way through the movie and you’ve cried twice, laughed, and shouted at the characters.
Even portraying the strong and resilient Ava took an emotional toll on Meagan Good. “The domestic violence part was hard for me,” she admitted in our interview. “I’ve never experienced that but you know …. I had a very close friend going up that was in an abusive relationship, and I struggled with like, why, why do you keep staying here.”

Divorce In The Black is a testament to the power of storytelling. It doesn’t shy away from portraying the dark aspects of domestic violence, but it also offers a message of hope and redemption. By the film’s conclusion, Ava finds a sense of peace and empowerment that leaves the viewer feeling a sense of catharsis.
The film’s impact is even more powerful knowing that the lead actors did their homework. During my interview with Meagan and Cory, they discussed the extensive emotional and mental preparation required to embody these complex characters. Notably, Cory Hardrict revealed that he drew inspiration from Laurence Fishburne’s portrayal of Ike Turner in What’s Love Got To Do With It and other on-screen depictions of abusive men.
“I would say I prepared by watching movies. I watched What’s Love Got to Do With It, I think three times. I studied clips on YouTube. I was looking at YouTube clips of different like scenes that I love from like films and you know guys with issues … in that manner. Also, I gave them backstory and I just put my experience of 30 years into this character and I just said I’m gonna go for it, you know.”, stated Hardrict.
This dedication to character development shines through in their performances, making the film’s emotional journey all the more impactful.
Divorce In The Black is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the complexities of domestic abuse. It’s a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll, prompting conversation and hopefully, fostering a greater awareness of this critical issue. While the film’s raw portrayal of abuse might trigger some viewers, the powerful performances and ultimate message of hope make it a worthwhile experience. Excellent job Mr. Perry!
Emotionally gripping
Good + Hardrict played the hell out of this role
A modern day "What's Love Got To Do With It"
Offers a message of hope and redemption
Tyler Perry shows out with the funeral scene
Domestic violence depicted on black women, which can be triggering and hard to watch
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Nekia Nichelle is an entertainment/lifestyle reporter + expert, TV host, and pop culture commentator. She’s been featured on TV ONE, TMZ, and several other major affiliates. Her self-run YouTube channel boasts 5MIL+ views. As the Editor-In-Chief of JustNLife.com, she provides a platform for diverse voices, extending her impact in the entertainment and lifestyle realms.




